So, here I am training for my first Triathlon in 2 months (it's a sprint in August) and I've decided to do some 5k's and a butte to butte in the interim, but I'm trying to make good time and perform to my best. The question is: how many days before the 5k (or any other race) should I lighten up my training retinue? I figure 2 days is a good down time, but I worry that that's too long.
if the TRI in august is your "A" race, then IMHO, a two day taper prior to a 5k is overkill. Many will say just keep on your training schedule and use the 5k as an intense work-out.
If you wanted to take off the day before the 5K, maybe mix up your training schedule so that your scheduled off day is the day before and you do a work-out on your normally scheduled off day.
I agree with both posts. I would not taper for a 5K race, but take the day before off. That 5K race should be like a training day, but with a much higher intensity.
Awesome! I was a little concerned about tapering too much so I went out and ran a decent 2.5 miles this morning, even though I hadn't read this yet. I'm really eager to get up and go do this, and want to see a good time, but frankly, my Tri is by far more important to me at this point. Though, rebreaking my 6 min mile time would be nice